Medrano Irazu (Castillo de Osés) "La Choza" Tempranillo Crianza Rioja DOC 2019

The Medrano Irazu family winery was founded in 1984. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Cantabria mountain range, their vineyards benefit from high altitude, clay-limestone soils, and Mediterranean and Atlantic influences. Among the winery’s various lines is Bodegas Castillo de Osés.

The winery’s work philosophy is “Respect for the vineyard and nature.”

The grapes are harvested by hand and then carefully sorted and selected. The wines are aged in French and American oak barrels no older than 5 years, so as to provide the harmony, balance and expressiveness the winemaker seeks to achieve.

The name “La Choza” goes back generations and refers to the rustic huts constructed by vineyard workers to protect their tools, provide shelter from the weather, and cook lunches to get them through the long work day. The “Chozas” are thus part of the landscape in Rioja Alavesa, much like dry stone walls characterize parts of England.

This fine restaurant-quality imported wine is not available at LCBO stores.

GRAPE VARIETY: 100% Tempranillo.

ORIGIN: Elvillar y Laguardia, Rioja Alavesa, Spain.

AGING: French oak and American oak in equal parts for 12 months with regular decanting every 6 months.

ALCOHOL: 14%.

TASTING NOTES: Clean and bright cherry-red color with blue highlights. Intense aroma of ripe fruits with notes of vanilla and hazelnut. Smooth on the plate with a notable presence of ripe red and black fruits.

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS: Perfect with grilled or sauced meats, sausages, and ham.

SERVING TEMPERATURE: 16 to 18° C.